B.C. disaster program upgraded to help flood victims, quickly aid in other disasters

BC is making it easier for victims to obtain disaster financial assistance.

Emergency Management BC and the Public Safety Ministry say the limitations of the old system were highlighted by last November's catastrophic floods that tore up highways and washed away homes and farms in many parts of southern BC.

Changes will make more farmers, businesses and rental unit owners eligible for relief and the application period has been reopened until the end of July to allow new claimants to submit their paperwork.

Local governments and First Nations also won't have to wait to receive funds until after a critical repair is complete because the program will now pay at least a portion of the cost upfront, and it will also pay a larger percentage of the total bill, easing pressure on cash-strapped communities.